Day One of DR7 Dallas saw several standout performances in the 18U division, with top athletes showcasing their talent on both sides of the ball. From explosive receivers making highlight grabs to lockdown defenders shutting down opponents, the competition was intense. As pool play unfolded, these playmakers consistently made their presence felt, proving why they are names to watch this season. Here’s a look at some of the top performers from Day One.
Deshawn Dewalt | Class of 2027 | WR | Richardson HS | 7v7: Ignite Athletics | Twitter: @Deshawn_1x
Dewalt showcased his quickness and shifty moves, making him a tough cover during pool play. His ability to get free at the snap allowed him to create separation and make plays consistently. Dewalt was a bright spot for Ignite Athletics, proving to be a playmaker to keep an eye on for his team.
Kevin Grant | Class of 2027 | ATH | Arlington Martin HS | 7v7: Ignite Athletics | Twitter: @K_grant2xx_
Standing at 6-foot, 185 pounds, Grant showcased his skills on both sides of the ball, proving to be a standout 2027 athlete from DFW that college programs need to get eyes on. With great feet and a stout presence in press coverage, he transitioned into his backpedal fluidly, locking down receivers. Offensively, his strong hands were on display, highlighted by an impressive over-the-shoulder grab. Grant’s solid build and playmaking ability make him a name to watch moving forward.
AJ Payne | Class of 2027 | WR | Arlington HS | 7v7: NTX Eagles | Twitter: @TheAj333
Payne showcased his short-area quickness and explosion off the ball, making him a tough cover in the slot. His strong hands allowed him to secure tough grabs, and he consistently made plays in key situations. Payne’s ability to create separation and make plays underneath makes him a valuable weapon in the passing game.
Sireric Scarbough | Class of 2026 | WR | Lancaster HS | 7v7: OST | Twitter: @D1Sireric
Scarbough was a standout for OST in pool play, consistently making big plays downfield. His shiftiness and quickness in and out of breaks made him a tough cover, allowing him to create separation with ease. He showcased strong hands and excellent body control, securing several deep-ball grabs in contested situations. Scarbough’s ability to adjust to the ball in the air and make plays at all levels of the field makes him a dangerous weapon in the passing game.
Micah Sheeler | Class of 2026 | WR | Cibolo Steele HS | 7v7: 4th Quarter Pressure | Twitter: @SheelerGreat28
Sheeler made his presence felt in pool play as a big-bodied target with an extended catch radius. His quickness in space allowed him to create separation, while his ability to make contested catches in traffic made him a reliable option in key situations. Sheeler’s size and strong hands make him a tough matchup for defenders, and he displayed that he can be a go-to receiver in tight coverage.
Jamin Harvell | Class of 2027 | WR | Cibolo Steele HS | 7v7: 4th Quarter Pressure | Twitter: @JaminHarvell09
Harvell had an impressive showing during pool play, consistently making plays with his twitchy athleticism and quick burst. His ability to accelerate off the line and stretch the field made him a tough cover for defenders. Harvell also showcased strong, reliable hands, securing several grabs throughout the day. His combination of speed and playmaking ability makes him a dangerous weapon in the passing game, and he’s a player to keep an eye on as the event continues.
LaDainian Wall | Class of 2026 | WR | Desoto HS | 7v7: OST | Twitter: @ladainianw3
Wall showed his skill set on Day One of pool play for OST, proving himself as a big play threat. His speed, strong hands, and route-running ability were on full display, allowing him to create separation and make plays downfield. Wall’s explosiveness makes him a constant deep threat, and his ability to secure tough catches adds another dimension to his game. After a strong start to the event, he left no doubt he’s a player to watch as the tournament progresses.
Chase Fisher | Class of 2027 | WR | Mansfield HS | 7v7: NTX Eagles | Twitter: @chasexfisher27
Fisher showcased his playmaking ability for the NTX Eagles on Day 1, proving to be a dangerous target in the passing game. At 6-foot-2, 175 pounds, he has a long, lean, athletic frame with a large catch radius and strong hands. Fisher consistently won jump balls, secured grabs in traffic, and used his speed to stretch the field. A 2027 WR out of Mansfield High School, he’s a name to watch, get eyes on him.